Middle South

March, 2013
Regional Report

Books

A Practical Guide to Pruning
Though I consider myself to be a practiced hand at pruning now, I honed my skills with A Practical Guide to Pruning by Peter McHoy (Select Editions, Vancouver, 2001). McHoy's guide not only covers basic techniques, it also provides an A-Z directory of ornamental plants with specific instructions for each, including special sections on roses and clematis. Particular attention is also given to tree care, hedge maintenance, and fruit-producing plants.

Favorite or New Plant

'Wisley Supreme' Witch Hazel
It's safe to say I'm one of those gardeners whose favorite plant is the one in bloom. Just now I'm captivated by my 'Wisley Supreme' witch hazel (Hamamelis mollis), a winter-blooming shrub that is especially long-flowering. Large, spidery blooms are citron-yellow and extraordinarily fragrant. When mature, the shrub stands 10 to 12 feet tall and 8 to 10 feet wide. As a bonus, autumn foliage is an eye-catching golden yellow.